Introduction to Protein

Picture of a woman stretching.

Protein makes up approximately 20 percent of the human body and is present in every single cell. The word protein is a Greek word, meaning "of utmost importance." Proteins are called the workhorses of life as they provide the body with structure and perform a vast array of functions. You can stand, walk, run, skate, swim, and more because of your protein-rich muscles. Protein is necessary for proper immune system function, digestion, and hair and nail growth, and is involved in numerous other body functions. In fact, it is estimated that more than one hundred thousand different proteins exist within the human body. In this lesson you will learn about the structure of protein, the important roles that protein serves within the body, how the body uses protein, the risks and consequences associated with too much or too little protein, and where to find healthy sources of it in your diet.

Topics Covered in this Unit

  1. Protein Structure

  2. Protein Functions

  3. Protein in Foods and Dietary Recommendations

  4. Protein Digestion and Absorption

  5. Health Consequences of Too Little and Too Much Dietary Protein

  6. Environmental Consequences of Protein Choices

Course Learning Outcomes Covered

  1. Define and classify the six classes of nutrients.

  2. Identify where the six classes of nutrients are found in foods.

  3. Explain how the six classes of nutrients are digested, absorbed, metabolized, and utilized.

  4. Distinguish between adequate nutrient intake, deficiencies, and toxicities and how these levels impact body systems and health outcomes.

  5. Acknowledge the importance of a moderate approach when it comes to nutrition and weight management, recognizing all foods can fit into a healthful diet.


References:

  1. "Defining Protein", section 6.1 from the book An Introduction to Nutrition (v. 1.0)

Image Credits:

  1. Yoga image by Dave Rosenblum, https://flic.kr.p/fMQ8FW, CC-BY-2.0



To get started, scroll down and click, "next page" or click, "Struc" in the navigation above.

Note: this unit was authored by Alice Callahan, PhD and Tamberly Powell, MS, RD

CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

 


return to top | next page